Boy, aged 14, caught drink driving in South Yorkshire

A boy as young as 14 has been caught drink driving on South Yorkshire’s roads, according to new figures released today.

South Yorkshire Police disclosed, under the Freedom of Information Act, that the youngster was among 12 aged 17 and under caught drink driving last year.

A girl and boy, both aged 15, were also arrested, along with two 16-year-old boys and a 16-year-old girl.

Six boys, aged 17, were also caught behind the wheel while drunk that year.

The force has not revealed how many of the youngsters were charged last year, but has disclosed that in 2012 there were 10 children aged 17 charged and another 14 in 2011 - one aged 15, two aged 16 and 11 aged 17.

In 2010 there were 20 child drink drivers charged - two aged 15, five aged 16 and 13 aged 17.

The year before 21 young drink drivers appeared at court - two aged 16 and 19 aged 17.

Spokesman Bryn Brooker said: “Uninsured drivers on UK roads pose a huge threat to the safety of the vast majority of responsible motorists and pedestrians.

“These threats come in many forms and today’s findings go to show that it’s not just those who illegally choose not to buy insurance. Motorists have to be aware of such threats and take appropriate measures to mitigate the risk.”